Protecting Your Outdoor Sign from Extreme Weather

As cities across Western Canada transition from winter to spring, the weather can be unpredictable—one day bringing mild temperatures and melting snow, the next plunging back below freezing. For business owners, these constant shifts aren’t just an inconvenience; they can also take a toll on outdoor signage.

From fluctuating temperatures to freeze-thaw cycles and strong winds, the changing season can impact the longevity and appearance of your business’s sign. It’s easy to overlook during this time of year, but with Onsite Sign, you don’t have to! Our team is here to help you protect your outdoor sign from the wear and tear of unpredictable weather.

The Type of Damage That Can Happen To Outdoor Signs

The damage done by the unpredictable weather to your business’ outdoor sign can come from a variety of factors during the season. Here’s some of the most common forms of damage:

Fluctuating Temperatures

When water seeps into any cracks or exposed areas on your sign, the water freezes, then expands, widening these cracks. When the weather warms up, the ice melts, allowing more water to enter.

This continuous “freeze-thaw” cycle can cause significant structural damage to your sign, internal and external electronic features, lighting features, and much more!

Ice and Snow Accumulation

Edmonton has become accustomed to periods where the snowfall happens quite fast and without warning. The snow can damage your outdoor sign in a variety of ways:

• Weight: Heavy snow and ice can accumulate on the sign and its fixtures, stressing the structure to the point it can no longer hold the weight, and collapse.
• Blocking: The snow can accumulate to the point it blocks your business name and any other important information your sign displays to get customers to your business.
• Icicles: Icicles can form at the corners of your sign, creating a potentially dangerous situation for customers and vehicles, depending on the height.

UV Damage

While most business owners may think the summer brings more risk for UV exposure, the snow acts as a powerful reflector against UV radiation, and can cause fading and or degrade the sign’s materials and colours over time.

Electrical Damage

Cooler temperatures and moisture can stress or short-circuit the wiring and electrical components of an LED sign or light fixtures, leading to temporary outages or permanent damage.

Wildlife 

Seeking shelter from the weather, birds and other small animals may nest or hide completely behind the light fixtures of your outdoor sign, potentially causing damage or fire hazards.

Structural Impact

In weather conditions that have reduced visibility or slippery surfaces, regular vehicles or larger vehicles such as snowplows may crash into your outdoor sign, and depending on the speed and size of the vehicle, can cause extreme damage to the sign.

Salt and Chemical Damage

Sidewalks and roads around your business and your outdoor sign may use salt and other chemicals to melt the ice. However, when splashed onto the fixtures, it can cause corrosion on exposed metal parts.

Has your sign been damaged by these weather conditions? Is it in need of immediate repair? Don’t wait until the damage is done, and connect with Onsite Sign.

Our comprehensive end-to-end services help businesses find the suitable sign solutions they need, all for an affordable price. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process, so you never need to worry! Our team can take your damaged sign and make it look brand new!

How to Protect Your Outdoor Sign

To help your outdoor sign last not only through the winter season, but for many years to come, here’s your checklist for your business to ensure your outdoor sign’s longevity:

Schedule Regular Inspections and Maintenance

It is recommended you book regularly-scheduled inspections and maintenance for your outdoor sign. This ensures each element of your sign is in top working order, and ensures any vulnerabilities are properly inspected and addressed.

Reinforce and Strengthen The Foundation

Replace or reinforce the sign foundation to ensure they are strong enough to withstand the weight of the snow and strong winter winds. It is recommended to use wind-resistant materials and add support struts to larger signs and any exterior commercial lighting.

Remove Any Snow and Ice Build-up

Safely remove all visible snow and ice build-up from the signage surfaces by using soft-bristled brushes. If your business has an outdoor sign that is quite large, it is recommended to call the professionals to help assist with snow removal.

Consider installing sign heaters or heat tapes for signs in areas of the signage to reduce the formation of icicles and ice accumulation.

Waterproof Your Sign

When your outdoor sign is installed, ensure it has proper drainage to help prevent water accumulation at the base. Make sure to waterproof any electrical components to prevent short-circuits and moisture-induced malfunctions.

Apply UVA/UVB Protective Coatings

At the design stage of your outdoor sign, it is recommended to apply UVA/UVB protective coatings or laminates to protect the colours of your sign from the damaging effects of sun exposure, which can happen during the winter months as the sun’s UV rays are reflected off of the snow.

Inspect The Lighting

Ensure your sign’s lighting has no dead bulbs and plan for regular maintenance of the lighting. When the bulbs no longer work, it can lead to your sign not being as visible to your customers, both from the sidewalk, and from the road.

By ensuring the inspection of the light bulbs and any additional wiring, you’re able to see where there may be any gaps in your electrical safety, and can help keep your electrical elements protected in the harshest of winter weather.

Deter Wildwife

To prevent birds or other small animals from nesting in your sign, make sure to install mesh or screens behind or around signs to prevent any nesting. It is also best practice to periodically check your outdoor sign for any signs of interference from animals.

Install Barriers For Protection

By setting up protective barriers at the base of your outdoor sign, you are ensuring it is protected from snow plows, vehicles or pedestrian impacts. If it is within your budget, install a security camera to record anyone or anything that may damage your sign (a very crucial component when submitting an insurance claim!).

Provide Protection Against Corrosion

Routine sign cleaning to remove all salt and chemical residues prevent corrosion and the slow, long-term damage of these harmful chemicals against your sign. To add an enhanced layer of protection, apply an anti-corrosion coating to any metal elements.
By taking these preventive measures, business owners can protect their outdoor signage, ensuring it remains visible and durable all winter long. A well-maintained sign not only reflects professionalism but also showcases a business’s dedication to quality and attention to detail!

What Makes The Onsite Sign Difference?

At Onsite Sign, we take pride in creating custom signage that perfectly fits your business’s needs. Our goal is to make the process seamless, stress-free, and tailored just for you. Here’s what sets us apart:

• A Smooth, Guided Experience: Our expert team supports you every step of the way, from concept to completion
• More Than Just Looks: We handle permits, materials, and scalability—so you don’t have to worry about the details.
• Truly Custom Designs: We craft signage solutions that capture your brand’s unique identity and make a lasting impact
• One Team, Start to Finish: With our end-to-end approach, there’s no need to juggle multiple vendors
• Hands-On Attention: We’re involved at every stage, ensuring quality, care, and precision throughout your project
• Built to Last: Our focus on durability and craftsmanship means your sign remains a strong investment for years to come

Onsite Sign Is Western Canada’s Custom Sign Solutions Experts

At Onsite Sign,  we take pride in delivering expertly crafted signage solutions to businesses across Western Canada. Our dedicated team is committed to providing high-quality, professional service tailored to your unique needs. From concept to completion, we guide you through every step of the process with innovation, precision, and exceptional customer care!